BIO

Andy Harnsberger – Percussionist, Composer, and Educator

Praised by Percussive Notes Journal as “a master of musical nuance,” Andy Harnsberger enjoys a distinguished and multifaceted career as a performer, composer, educator, and chamber musician. He has performed throughout North America, South America, Australia, Japan, and Europe, presenting solo recitals, duo performances, and clinics across the United States each year.

A major part of his artistic work is the Harnsberger/Jones Duo, an acclaimed marimba duo recognized for its dynamic performances, innovative programming, and commitment to expanding the marimba repertoire. The duo has commissioned and premiered new works by leading composers, helping shape and grow the contemporary marimba literature while bringing fresh music to audiences nationally and internationally.

Harnsberger has been a featured artist at festivals worldwide and has appeared multiple times as a featured soloist and presenter at the Percussive Arts Society International Convention (PASIC) and has been a guest artist at numerous Percussive Arts Society Days of Percussion.

A sought-after recitalist and clinician both domestically and internationally, Dr. Harnsberger has released five solo albums in addition to a live recording of the Harnsberger/Jones Duo. A multiple recipient of the ASCAP PLUS Award, he has been recognized for his contributions to American concert music. His compositions have been featured at PASIC and performed worldwide.

As an orchestral performer, Harnsberger has appeared with numerous ensembles over the past forty years, including the Rochester Philharmonic, Atlanta Symphony, Nashville Symphony, Chattanooga Symphony, Alabama Symphony, Charleston Symphony, Richmond Symphony and Ballet Orchestras, Key West Symphony, Harrisburg Symphony, and Lancaster Symphony, among others. He has also performed with the contemporary music ensemble Currents and toured extensively as percussionist and xylophone soloist with The Jack Daniel’s Silver Cornet Band.

In addition to his 700+ solo performances, Harnsberger has appeared on National Public Radio in both interviews and live performances, helping raise public awareness of the marimba as a solo concert instrument.

Dr. Harnsberger currently serves as Professor of Music and Percussion Coordinator at Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee. He earned his Doctor of Musical Arts in Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music, where he also received the prestigious Performer’s Certificate.

Andy’s Signature Series mallets are available from Malletech, and he is a performing artist and clinician for Malletech Instruments and Mallets, Remo Drum Heads, Sabian Cymbals, Ltd., and Grover Pro Percussion.

Selected Press

“The Harnsberger/Jones Duo is a musical force to be reckoned with! Their virtuosic technique and mastery of texture make their LIVE album a true joy to listen to…Harnsberger and Jones capture a special energy…While the duo has released several studio-recorded tracks that are exceptional, this DUO LIVE is truly special.”- Percussive Notes Journal

“Harnsberger is a clear virtuoso… the recording (Phoenix) is superb. The sound quality is phenomenal, with a great sense of space around the performers, and yet everything is heard in miraculous detail. More than a disc for percussionists, this music deserves a wide currency.”- Fanfare Magazine

“Andy Harnsberger is a joy to watch in performance and a feast for the ears. The sensitivity and strength in his live playing was a treasure for the audience… simply phenomenal!

- National Public Radio

“His performance was a vivid demonstration of the power of music—riveting and profoundly artistic.”- The Washington Post

“Andy plays with precision, power, and finesse. His enthusiasm and passion are evident in every note.”- Creative Loafing, Atlanta

“He plays the instrument with splendid command and dramatic flair… an amazing exhibition of virtuosity.”- Falls Church News Press

“His performance makes it clear that he is a master player, not only technically but musically as well… a master of musical nuance… wonderfully played.”- Percussive Notes Journal